Thanjavur

About a thousand years ago, Thanjavur was the capital of the powerful Chola dynasty. Today, it is little town set amidst the lush rice fields of the Cauvery delta. Magnificent temples, still bear witness to the splendour of Chola architecture.

Thanjavur's crowing glory is its Brihadeeshwara temple with its 66.5 m high 'Srivimana' dominating the city. The monolithic granite block that forms a cupola on the top, weighs 81.3 tones, reflecting the architectural powers of the Chola architecture.

Thanjavur is an established centre of learning and its Saraswati Mahal Library instituted by the Maratha ruler Serfoji, has an extensive collection of over 30,000 manuscripts, palm leaf inscriptions and books.

In January, the Thiruvaiyari Music festival is held in honour of the composer and saint Thyagaraja. It attracts eminent musicians and connoisseurs of Carnatic music.

Traditional Thanjavur paintings on glass, Copper plates inlaid with brass and silver, bronze incons from Swamimalai, musical instruments and traditional wood carving, Bell metal lamps from Poompuhar and other shops.

Thirukandiyur, 10 km away, noted for the temples of Brahmasirikandes waran and Harshavimochan Perumal.

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